The Horniman Museum, Forest Hill

A few months ago I took you on a visit through the Horniman Museum in South East London. Today I thought I’d take you around the grounds because it turns out I’ve found my place of calm.

The museum itself is in a beautiful Victorian building, and it’s surrounded by 16 acres of gardens. As soon as I walk up to the Horniman steps, I feel relaxed – it’s like a snippet of greenery in a busy city and it’s often just what I need at the end of a busy day. It also makes me fall in love with London. I love that from the top of the hill in my little pocket of London, you can see London’s iconic skyline in the distance.

This week I took the afternoon off work. The sun was shining, I was a bit stressed and my sister was in need of some sibling time. I went back to the flat and we had a wander up to the museum, walking through the London sunshine and catching up. When we arrived, I took her to my favourite part of the gardens… the old conservatory.

The first time I saw this building I was blown away. I think it’s all the glass. All I know is that every time I turn the corner and walk up the hill, I feel relaxed. I forget that I have a job, I forget that I have a mortgage, and I forget that I have aches and pains all over my body. I feel light and totally calm.

Once I’ve seen the conservatory, felt the wave of calm, and contemplated going to the cafe for a slice of their incredible looking cake, I wander through the grounds.

If you’re in South London, I encourage a trip to the Horniman Museum. It’s my little pocket of city heaven, but I’m more than happy to share.

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Welcome! I’m Sarah, a chronic pain blogger sharing my tips and tricks for living a life less physical – but no less fun.

I’ve had migraines and fibromyalgia for the best part of my adult life, and I use my corner of the internet to discuss challenges and coping strategies, with a healthy dose of sarcasm and far too many references to pizza.